Germany cruise past France to set up U21 Euro final clash with England

Germany beat France 3-0 in the European U21 Championship semi-final at the Kosicka Futbalova Arena this evening.

France had the first shot on target when Tottenham Hotspur’s Mathys Tel passed to club team-mate Wilson Odobert, but goalkeeper Noah Atubol saved his effort.

Guillaume Restes saved Paul Nebel’s attempt before Nelson Weiper opened the scoring for Germany with a right-footed shot.

In-form forward Nick Woltemade gave the Germans a two-goal cushion in the 14th minute, placing a close-range shot into the net.

Atubolu made another save to prevent Odobert from scoring for France five minutes later.

Matthis Abline missed a chance to reduce the deficit, heading Kiliann Sildillia’s cross off target before the end of the first half.

France started the second half on the front foot. Thierno Barry had two chances to score, but Atubolu saved both.

Just before the hour mark, Weiper wasted a chance to increase Germany’s lead. The Mainz 05 forward’s shot was also blocked in the 66th minute by defender Nathaniel Brown.

Brajan Gruda delivered a cross for Woltemade, but the VfB Stuttgart forward’s header drifted wide.

Restes made a save to deny SC Freiburg midfielder Merlin Rohl’s shot from the right side of the box, preventing the Germans from extending their lead.

Barry hit the right post with a late header after forward Loum Tchaouna delivered a cross into the box.

Gruda sealed the victory for the Germans deep into stoppage time with a left-footed shot from close range.

Germany will now face England in the final. The Young Lions beat the Netherlands 2-1 in the other semi-final fixture.